College football&#x27;s Week 0 season-opening games

USF Opens Hartline Era With 19-9 Win

The USF Bulls beat FIU 19-9 in the 2026 season opener at Raymond James Stadium, highlighted by a defensive performance that forced three turnovers. A crowd of 41,847, including more than 9,500 students, celebrated the Bulls' first win of coach Brian Hartline's tenure.

USF Defeats Army 28-24 on Late TD

South Florida quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr. engineered a dramatic 28-24 comeback win over Army, throwing a 38-yard go-ahead TD to Joshua Porter with 19 seconds left and totaling four touchdowns on the day. Van Buren finished 19 of 30 for 239 yards with 45 rushing yards as USF improved to 2-0, while Army remained tough but couldn't hold in the closing moments.

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Edwards Leads Michigan State Past Eastern Michigan, 35-7

Michigan State rolled to a 2-0 start with a dominant second half, pulling away to 35-7 over Eastern Michigan after a tight first half. Cam Edwards rushed for 152 yards with two touchdowns and Alessio Milivojevic added two passing scores as the Spartans outgained EMU 472-219, setting up a high-profile road test at Notre Dame next.

North Texas Rout UNLV 44-6 in Home Opener

North Texas rolled to a 44-6 win over UNLV in the home opener, with Tayven Jackson throwing two TDs and rushing for another while Jahiem White ran for 124 yards and a score. The Mean Green, guided by first-year coach Nate Brown, bent but largely controlled the game with a stifling defense that forced multiple fumbles and sacks as UNLV struggled offensively.

Pitt Defeats UCF 12-7 in Defensive Battle

Pitt prepares to host UCF at Acrisure Stadium in a 2026 clash that would extend the Panthers’ 2-1 edge in the series, with Hall of Fame recognition and Kids Day on the event slate, while UCF’s strong rushing attack tests Pitt’s run defense, which ranked eighth nationally in 2025. In other Pitt news, the No. 2 volleyball team opened Victory Heights Arena with a 54th straight home win and a dominant performance, and Pitt’s football defense has already produced standout moments, including an interception in the Miami (OH) game.

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Notre Dame teams secure five wins including late soccer stunner

Notre Dame-affiliated teams across high school and college posted a spectrum of results this week, from Notre Dame Prep and Notre Dame High School delivering strong performances to close games and big offensive outputs, to Desert Edge stifling Notre Dame’s offense in a lopsided win for Desert Edge and a 1-0 Notre Dame victory over Clemson in men’s soccer illustrating a rare bold win for the Irish. The results underscore the program’s ongoing strength in some contexts while facing tough defenses and losses in others, including a turnover-prone clash and a rout that kept Notre Dame’s unbeaten runs at stake.

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Alabama Defeats Kentucky 45-17 in SEC Opener

Alabama’s defense anchored a 45-17 win at Kentucky to open SEC play, moving the Crimson Tide to 2-0 while exposing Kentucky’s new regime under Will Stein. As both programs prep for future matchups, questions abound about Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell’s development and the offensive line, and about Kentucky’s readiness to contend with a perennial powerhouse.

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Maryland hands UConn first Candle-era loss, 38-14

Maryland’s up-tempo offense overwhelmed UConn, driving four long scoring drives and handing the Huskies a 38-14 defeat as Malik Washington threw for 347 yards and extended an 18‑completion stretch, while Maryland’s defense limited UConn’s attack and kept Kalieb Osborne largely in check. UConn never reached Maryland’s red zone, and the Terrapins capitalized with multiple red-zone scores and a balanced attack.

Duke Rallies Past Illinois 31-27

Duke rallied from an early deficit to beat Illinois 31-27 on the road, powered by Nate Sheppard’s 147 rushing yards and three touchdowns as Walker Eget delivered a more efficient, turnover-free performance. Illinois’ Collin Dixon and Katin Houser kept the Illini competitive in the first half, but Duke’s defense stiffened in the second half and made crucial stops to seal the win, even as Eget left briefly with an injury before returning.

Liberty rallies past Gardner-Webb 24-23

Liberty survived Gardner-Webb 24-23 on a 54-yard TD pass from Jaylen Henderson to Darius Copeland with 2:34 left, marking the Flames’ first win since Nov. 1, 2025. Henderson sparked the comeback after Deshawn Purdie’s early handoff, prompting talk of a quarterback controversy and leaving coach Jamey Chadwell stressing the need to improve at quarterback going forward.

Oklahoma State stuns No. 6 Oregon, 39-31

Oklahoma State, under new head coach Eric Morris, toppled No. 6 Oregon 39-31 in Stillwater, snapping long losing streaks and highlighting a potent Cowboys offense led by Drew Mestemaker's 400-plus total yards. Oregon struggled offensively, particularly in the first half, as Dante Moore and the Ducks failed to capitalize on turnovers and inconsistencies, keeping the game within reach but ultimately falling short.

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Wake Forest Edges Purdue 38-36 in Double Overtime

Wake Forest outlasted Purdue 38-36 in double overtime at Ross-Ade, with Gio Lopez scoring the game-winning 3-yard touchdown and a successful two-point conversion after a clutch replay-approved first down by Carlos Hernandez. Purdue, buoyed by Fame Ijeboi’s 156 rushing yards and three touchdowns, fought back but extended its long losing streak against power-conference programs.

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Tech

Blizzard Announces Animated Diablo Netflix Series, Teases More

Blizzard announced at BlizzCon 2026 that an animated Diablo series is in development for Netflix, with hints that Overwatch and Warcraft adaptations may follow. President Johanna Faries says this is just the beginning and that more projects are being discussed, though no release dates have been disclosed yet.

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Penn State Wins 27-9 in Campbell’s Road Debut

Penn State, now guided by Matt Campbell, opened with a 45-0 victory over Marshall, with Tony Rojas pivotal on defense and Rocco Becht throwing four touchdown passes as the offense clicked; Campbell called the result a positive step in his first game and praised the team’s performance on both sides of the ball. In the following preview of a road test at Temple, the Lions dominated their first road game with a 27-9 win as Rojas again led tackles and Campbell stressed the importance of handling a noon kickoff on the road and maintaining the program’s standard of excellence, referencing his Mount Union-Collegiate playoff memories to frame the challenge.

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South Carolina Hosts Towson Before SEC Play

The South Carolina Gamecocks host Towson at night in Columbia after a 57-0 season-opening win that featured a program-record sellout and a stifling defensive performance against Kent State. Previews emphasize generating edge pressure, creating turnovers, and disciplined play to prepare for SEC play, with Towson quarterback Andrew Indorf and receiver Cleveland Charlton highlighted as threats as Beamer frames this as a tune-up.

Oklahoma Linebacker Kip Lewis Exits Michigan Game With Knee Injury

Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Kip Lewis exited the Michigan game with a right‑knee injury but returned later in the first quarter as substitute James Nesta stepped in, highlighting Lewis’s continued leadership on defense. Separately, Oklahoma State defensive tackle Iman Oates left the Oregon game with a leg injury and walked off under his own power amid ongoing eligibility considerations.

Delaware Set for First SEC Game at Vanderbilt

Delaware, in its first season at the FBS and 1-0 after beating Merrimack, heads to Nashville to face a Vanderbilt squad that is also 1-0 after a win over Austin Peay. Vanderbilt, who used a two-quarterback system in the win and is weighing the best formula under coach Clark Lea, will try to handle a Delaware team eager to test itself against an SEC opponent for the first time in this series.

Manning Seeks Turnaround in Ohio State Rematch

Arch Manning has shown tangible improvement since last season and is at the center of Texas vs. Ohio State as a potential Heisman catalyst, a matchup that could shape his award chances and NFL projections. Across betting previews and coach/player observations, the narrative emphasizes Manning’s development, the Buckeyes’ tougher defense, and the broader stakes of the rematch for Texas’ prospects and Manning’s trajectory.

SEC Weighs Expelling LSU Over Player Dispute

The SEC has amended its federal lawsuit against LSU and Lane Kiffin to seek the power to expel LSU from the conference over alleged lack of institutional control, with a two-thirds vote planned at an upcoming meeting. Meanwhile, LSU’s roster decisions around former NFL players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris unfold as the SEC presses its case, even as LSU routed Clemson 51-10 in the latest development of the dispute.

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Tickets Reportedly Top $42,000 Ahead of Texas-Ohio State

Ticket prices for the Texas vs. Ohio State game have surged to eye-popping levels, with some listings hitting $42,000 and average resale prices around $800–$900 as the matchup—bolstered by College GameDay and two top-five teams—sets a near-sellout, record-attendance expectation. Many students and fans are being priced out, relying on virtual queues or season-ticket packages, while analysts note demand could still rise closer to kickoff before easing once inventory shifts.

N.C. State routs Richmond 73-0 in record-setting opener

NC State overwhelmed Richmond 73-0 in Raleigh, rebounding from a season-opening loss as Duke Scott ran for 128 yards and CJ Bailey threw for 281 yards with a rushing score, while Will Wilson added three short rushing TDs and a touchdown pass. The Wolfpack dominated with seven of eight first-half drives scoring and delivered a 90-minute lightning delay, holding Richmond to 110 total yards in a dominant home-opener performance that improved Doeren’s record in such games.

Lincoln Kienholz throws for 332 yards in Louisville's 59-13 win

Louisville rolled to a 59-13 win over Villanova behind Lincoln Kienholz’s 332 passing yards and four total touchdowns, solidifying a high-powered start for Jeff Brohm’s offense. The Cardinals’ balanced attack featured Lawayne McCoy’s 102 receiving yards and multiple contributors, setting the stage for an ACC opener against SMU.

Baylor Rules Out DJ Lagway; Bennett to Start

Baylor will start quarterback Nate Bennett against Prairie View A&M after DJ Lagway suffered a left ankle injury in the season opener and is ruled out for Saturday, though not expected to be long-term. Bennett will make his first career start as Baylor aims to maintain the explosive passing game Lagway displayed against Auburn, a performance that featured 333 passing yards and two touchdowns but also turnovers and efficiency concerns.

Michigan Escapes Western Michigan After Controversial Hail Mary

Michigan escaped Western Michigan 13-12 when a review added one second to the clock, enabling Bryce Underwood to launch a 47-yard Hail Mary to JJ Buchanan for the winning score. Kyle Whittingham, in his debut, acknowledged a challenging game and the controversial finish, while postgame reporting highlighted the dramatic turnaround and ongoing questions about preparation and execution.

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Mensah Stars as Miami Routs FAMU, 77-7

Darian Mensah led Miami to a 77-7 win over FAMU, completing 14 of 15 passes for 252 yards and three TDs as he strengthens his Heisman bid through two games. With Miami 2-0 and eyeing a key ACC test at Wake Forest, analysts and betting boards are positioning him among the front-runners for the award.

Nebraska lineman Mac Markway retires after recurring knee injuries end comeback

Nebraska defensive end Mac Markway, an LSU transfer who battled multiple knee injuries, announced his retirement from football after appearing in the season opener. He said he’ll remain with the program to help in other aspects of football, with coach Matt Rhule praising his resilience as he shifts focus away from playing toward supporting the Huskers.

Ohio State, Oregon, USC and Indiana open as Big Ten contenders

SiriusXM Big Ten kicks off the 2026 season with Week 1 power rankings and player-of-the-week honors, highlighting Ohio State’s robust start, USC quarterback Jayden Maiava’s standout performance, and Penn State’s transition under Matt Campbell with shifted national-title odds. The new coaching dynamics and ongoing Big Ten updates across the conference are shaping expectations for a competitive season.

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UCLA, San Diego State Near Rose Bowl Clash

SDSU heads to the Rose Bowl to face UCLA riding a potent rushing attack and standout players like Sutton and Kinnard, while linebackers such as Hala are expected to fuel the defense against UCLA’s power run game. UCLA, under Bob Chesney, aims for a balanced offense and improved O-line depth as it previews a marquee matchup amid realignment-era changes and looks to extend its home-field edge in the series.

Big Ten expands live replay reviews to 2026 conference games

The Big Ten is expanding in-broadcast replay reviews to include all conference games and most non-conference games in 2026, featuring live audio between the game referee and replay official, video of the review, and access to the Big Ten Replay Center. The plan, spurred by scrutiny after last week’s Western Michigan–Michigan finish, also notes that a Michigan–Oklahoma game will not be included due to the broadcasting crew arrangement for that pairing.

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Alabama QB Keelon Russell Expected to Start

Keelon Russell is set to start at Alabama, with coaches and teammates praising his poise, leadership, and dual-threat abilities after stellar high school success, and his first collegiate start is anticipated against East Carolina on Sept. 5, backed by rising Heisman odds as a top quarterback prospect. His supportive network, including former teammate Coleman-Williams and AJ McCarron’s advice, underscores confidence in his leadership and readiness for the spotlight.

Notre Dame Plans Holtz Helmet Decal for 2026

Notre Dame will honor Lou Holtz this season with a helmet decal featuring the name “LOU” and hand signals, commemorating his 1988 national championship and 100-win tenure. The team will debut the tribute in the season opener against Wisconsin at Lambeau Field on Sept. 6, with additional commemorations planned around the 2026 season.

Notre Dame, Wisconsin Meet at Lambeau Field

Indiana is shaping its fall sports narrative across football, soccer, and field hockey: the Hoosiers football program hosts North Texas in week opener with a parade of top targets in attendance, signaling momentum on the recruiting front, while the men's soccer team remains undefeated early in 2026 and eyes upcoming home matches after a 1-1 draw at Louisville. Meanwhile, field hockey opened with losses but prepares for home weekend play, highlighting debuts and late pushes as IU looks to rebound with New Hampshire and Central Michigan on the horizon.

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Notre Dame Opens 2026 Title Bid Against Wisconsin

Notre Dame opens the 2026 season against Wisconsin at Lambeau Field with high expectations, a Heisman-hopeful quarterback, and tributes to Lou Holtz, while navigating last year’s CFP snub. Across sports outlets, the Irish are framed as a strong national championship contender with a storied past driving an urgent pursuit of a title not won since 1988.

College Football Teams Reveal, Withhold 2026 Depth Charts

As college football returns, previews across SMU–Florida State, Texas, Miami, Middle Tennessee, and Alabama center on depth charts, starting quarterbacks, and lineup questions that will shape Week 1 and the early season. Analysts highlight turnover risks, vanilla game plans, and key personnel uncertainties as teams unveil their projected rosters and alignments.

Punt-Return Touchdowns Mark College Football Openers

Iowa’s Evan James delivered a 77-yard punt return for a touchdown in the season opener, highlighting his transition from Furman as the Hawkeyes opened strong. Oklahoma’s Isaiah Sategna added an 87-yard punt return for the Sooners, the team’s first punt-return TD since 2023, while Minnesota’s Javon Tracy set a program record with two punt-return touchdowns in the season opener against Eastern Illinois.

Tarleton State Claims Second FBS Win, 20-13

Tarleton State's football opened the season with a 20-13 upset of Bowling Green, powered by Tylan Hines's 250 rushing yards and a key fourth-down stop that preserved the win as the program pursues back-to-back FBS wins. Meanwhile, the women's soccer team has four draws this season, most recently a 0-0 tie with UIW, after a 4-2 win at Grambling and a forthcoming Sunday match against Houston Christian.

Baugh Runs for 160, Florida Beats FAU 66-21

Florida running back Jadan Baugh opened the Jon Sumrall era with a 66-21 win over Florida Atlantic, piling up 160 yards and three touchdowns and signaling a potential Heisman-caliber season after last year’s 1,170-yard campaign. Sumrall actively kept Baugh from entering the transfer portal, including a Christmas Eve visit, and praised his work ethic as the Gators aim for back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and continued offensive punch.

Indiana Expects RB Martin Back Midseason After Injury

Indiana running back Khobie Martin will be out until midseason with an arm injury sustained in the season opener, with coach Curt Cignetti updating the timeline to a midseason return and the possibility of being ready for the October 17 game against Ohio State. The Hoosiers’ starting cornerbacks A.J. Harris and Jamari Sharpe are listed day-to-day after the opener, and the backfield rotation is expected to lean on Turbo Richard and Lee Beebe Jr. in Martin’s absence.

Gillman Breaks Record, Ties Another in 45-10 Win

Montana running back Eli Gillman scored four rushing touchdowns to break the program’s career rushing TD record and tie the all-time mark for total TDs, as the Grizzlies rolled past Drake 45-10 to move to 2-0 under coach Bobby Kennedy. Quarterback Keali’i Ah Yat threw for 282 yards and two scores, while Montana—despite 16 penalties for 138 yards—maintained control in front of 25,915 fans at Washington-Grizzly Stadium.

Florida revives 'Gator Bait' cheer after six-year ban over racist imagery

Florida revived its controversial Gator Bait cheer at the season opener, six years after it was banned due to its racist imagery, with the band performing the cue as fans chanted. The move comes as new UF president Stuart Bell signals openness to the tradition amid a broader post-Floyd-era reckoning and leadership changes following Kent Fuchs’s ban and shifting DEI policies.

Boise State's 'Shout' dance fires up Oregon before rivalry win

Boise State joined Oregon’s long-running Autzen Stadium tradition by dancing to the Isley Brothers’ 'Shout' during the fourth-quarter lull, a move that irked Oregon players but did not prevent the Ducks from rallying behind Dante Moore for a 62-yard game-winning touchdown. The incident highlighted the clash over Autzen’s famous pre- fourth-quarter ritual, with Boise State coach Spencer Danielson saying the team had been practicing the move to boost momentum and Oregon players viewing it as a distraction that they turned into motivation.

Memphis rallies past early deficit to defeat Arkansas State 42-24

Memphis opened their renovated Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium with a 42-24 win over Arkansas State, riding a dominant rushing attack that produced 335 yards and a standout four-TD night from Jaylin Carter. The Tigers pulled away after halftime, with Carter compiling 183 rushing yards and Memphis’ defense sealing the victory with multiple interceptions as they move to 2-0 on the season.

UCLA routs Cal 45-24 as Iamaleava's leg injury raises questions

UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava suffered a leg/calf injury late in the win at California but was described by coach Bob Chesney as not serious and expected to be available next week, with his younger brother Madden stepping in briefly. The Bruins still rolled to a 45-24 victory behind Wayne Knight's three rushing touchdowns and a strong rushing load from Anthony Woods, though Iamaleava left the game limping and his status remained a focal point after the matchup.

Washington Huskies Win Apple Cup 24-10

Washington state apple growers anticipate a 2026 crop 7-10% smaller due to frost, hail and rising costs, but quality remains strong and supply of the Cosmic Crisp is expected to stabilize for retailers while shipments are tracking ahead of last year. In college football, the Washington Huskies opened the Apple Cup with a 24-10 win over Washington State, riding a stout defense and a trio of true freshman contributors, signaling a promising start under coach Jedd Fisch.

Carneiro's Walk-Off Kick Lifts Ole Miss, 41-38

Ole Miss survived a dramatic comeback by Louisville to win 41-38 on a 48-yard walk-off field goal by Lucas Carneiro, sealing Pete Golding’s first-season opener in a high-scoring thriller. Trinidad Chambliss threw for 351 yards and three touchdowns as Ole Miss fought back from a late 38-38 tie behind Kienholz’s late rally for Louisville, with Ole Miss overcoming early miscues to clutch the win.

FSU football final: Mustangs beat Seminoles with late FG, 27-24

Looking at the Heisman and CFP markets after Week 1: Favorites, fades and best bets

College Football Playoff 2026: Bubble watch after Week 1

SEC files amendment to lawsuit against LSU, Lane Kiffin seeking authority to expel Tigers from league

Lane Kiffin Reportedly Makes Final LSU Roster Decision on Dae'Quan Wright, Zxavian Harris

SEC Schedules Vote on Whether to Expel LSU

Inside Michigan football's players-only meeting after the Western Michigan game

MAC appeals FBS committee to overturn Michigan win over Western Michigan

Southeastern Conference leaders to discuss expelling LSU over player eligibility dispute

Mid-American Conference appeals to have Western Michigan recognized as winner of game against Michigan

College football Week 1 overreactions: Michigan lost, Oregon in danger, ACC stinks

Florida Opens Sumrall Era With 66-21 Win

Miami visits Stanford for a 2026 opener, highlighting Miami's strong defense and Stanford's historically weaker offense. Florida renews its in-state series with Florida Atlantic at home with ticket and broadcast details, while UCF prepares for a season opener against Bethune-Cookman amid a roster overhaul and coaching notes.

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Texas seeks to end losing streak against top-ranked Ohio State

Ohio State’s season opener against Ball State highlighted a powerful passing attack but exposed lingering questions about the running game and potential offensive-line changes as they prep for a highly anticipated Texas showdown; Texas has come up short in two prior close losses to the Buckeyes and is looking to finally close the gap. Veteran Texas defender Hero Kanu frames the Texas–Ohio State rivalry as playoff-caliber and notes the long-standing, scrutinized nature of both programs as the rematch in Austin looms amid historic context.

Florida WR Singleton Highly Questionable Against Campbell

Florida wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr. left the season opener with an ankle injury and is listed as highly questionable for Week 2 against Campbell, with coach Jon Sumrall saying development will come midweek; Emmanuel Oyebadejo is also questionable with a similar issue, while Evan Pryor’s hip already limited him. In Singleton’s absence, Florida leaned on Bailey Stockton and TJ Abrams Jr. to produce in a dominant 66-21 win as they seek to get Singleton back soon after he entered with an FBS-leading 37-game receiving streak that ended with zero targets in the opener.

Western Michigan president says no appeal exists for Michigan's disputed win

Western Michigan president Russ Kavalhuna said he sought an appeal over the disputed one-second replay that allowed Michigan to beat Western Michigan 13-12, but there is no appeals process. The Big Ten and MAC defended the decision, noting a viewing discrepancy and stating the review followed the established process with no avenue for an appeal.

Kewan Lacy, Deuce Alexander exit tied Ole Miss-Louisville game with injuries

Ole Miss running back Kewan Lacy left the game with a thigh/knee injury after delivering 61 rushing yards and a touchdown on 17 carries, casting uncertainty over his status for upcoming games. The Rebels also saw Deuce Alexander exit late with an injury before returning, underscoring Lacy’s central role as Ole Miss pursues a key early-season test, including a potential Week 3 date with LSU.

Weather

Over 100 fans treated for heat illness at college football openers

Heat and humidity marred opening-game atmospheres across multiple campuses: at Kentucky, more than 100 fans experienced heat-related issues, with several hospitalized, after a revised water-bottle policy and intensified safety guidance were issued. In Tulsa, temperatures hit triple digits with a heat index over 106, prompting free water, misting stations and cooling zones to help fans endure the conditions.

Ohio State routs Ball State 56-3 ahead of Texas showdown

Ohio State rolled past Ball State 56-3, with Jeremiah Smith delivering a one-handed 48-yard first-quarter grab and finishing with 151 receiving yards, while Julian Sayin racked up 320 passing yards and three touchdowns as the Buckeyes cruised. The program is already riding Heisman buzz for its star trio—Smith, Sayin and Bo Jackson—and eyes their next test on the road at Texas.

Nevada routs Western Kentucky in lopsided season-opening win

Dabo Swinney reacts after Clemson's rout loss to Lane Kiffin's LSU

Air Force Opens Season With 34-0 Shutout of Duquesne

Air Force opened the 2026 season with a 34-0 shutout of Duquesne, piling up 431 rushing yards while holding the Dukes to 107 total yards and no red-zone entries, anchored by Liam Szarka’s two rushing touchdowns. The dominant ground game and stout defense set up a Week 2 matchup with North Dakota State.

San Diego College Teams Post Win, Loss, Draw

San Diego State opened its Pac-12 era with a 53-20 football win over Portland State, highlighting big plays, a 100-yard kickoff return and a strong ground game. UC Davis defeated San Diego 49-17 behind Treynor Cleeland’s five touchdown passes, while SDSU’s weekend also produced a 2-2 soccer draw with Cal State Bakersfield thanks to Nik Orth’s late equalizer.

Northwestern holds off South Dakota State rally in Chip Kelly's debut

Northwestern opened Chip Kelly’s era with a 34-18 win over FCS South Dakota State, generating explosive plays on offense (Aidan Chiles: 273 passing yards and a rushing TD) and a stingy defense. The Wildcats’ balanced attack featured a 71-yard first-play connection to Griffin Wilde, an 80-yard late standout by Joseph Himon II, and strong performances from a healthy lineup as they moved to 1-0 in the 2026 season.

Kansas State Opens Klein Era With 71-3 Win

Kansas State kicked off the Collin Klein era with a dominant 71-3 win over Nicholls, led by Avery Johnson’s 199 passing yards and four total touchdowns as the new head coach praised a high-powered debut. The Wildcats piled up 559 yards and matched school records for touchdowns by multiple players, marking the program’s first 70-point game since 2000.

Heintschel sets ACC touchdown record as Pitt routs Miami 59-14

Pitt quarterback Mason Heintschel threw seven touchdown passes to seven different receivers in a 59-14 win over Miami (Ohio), setting an ACC single-game record and tying Pitt’s program mark with seven TD passes as part of a 453-yard, 31-for-41 performance to open the 2026 season. The Panthers totaled 646 yards of offense and showed explosive potential, boosting optimism for the rest of their schedule.

Brandon’s Five Scores Power Tennessee’s 56-9 Win

Freshman Faizon Brandon exploded in his Tennessee debut, throwing for 226 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for two more to power a 56-9 win over Furman. The Vols amassed 638 yards of offense, with DeSean Bishop and Justin Baker both grinding out big rushing numbers and Mike Matthews totaling 132 receiving yards and two scores as Tennessee dominated early and coasted to the victory, aided by a swarming defense led by Xavier Gilliam’s three sacks.

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Georgia routs Tennessee State 63-3 as Georgia State tops North Carolina A&T 59-10

Georgia dominated Tennessee State 63-3 in the opener, piling up nearly 700 yards of offense as Gunner Stockton threw three TDs and Nate Frazier ran for three; depth was showcased with multiple quarterbacks contributing. Meanwhile, Georgia State rolled past NC A&T 59-10 behind Cameran Brown’s two TD passes and six rushing touchdowns from different players, highlighting a revamped offense after an offseason overhaul.

Syracuse Opens Season With 66-3 Rout

Syracuse opened the 2026 season with a dominant 66-3 win over New Hampshire, and quarterback Steve Angeli looked sharp in his return from injury as the offense clicked early. With a crowded QB room featuring Amari Odom and Malachi Nelson, Syracuse hasn’t named a backup, signaling ongoing competition even after a strong performance and heightening attention on the team’s depth and development.

San José State overcomes fourth-quarter deficit to beat Eastern Michigan 27-21

San Jose State rallied to beat Eastern Michigan 27-21 behind Luke Weaver’s 316 passing yards and three touchdown passes, with Cooper Hoch catching two of them as EMU led 21-17 late before SJSU’s defense and a 49-yard field goal sealed the win. The victory followed a strong offensive showing against USC and sets up SJSU as a disciplined, mobile-shot-spread offense under coach Ken Niumatalolo, while EMU’s defense and quarterback Noah Kim kept the game tight, marking the first regular-season meeting between the programs and heightening anticipation for the next matchup.

USC's defense records rare two-safety shutout in 39-0 win over Fresno State

USC rolled to a 39-0 win over Fresno State, riding a stifling defense under Gary Patterson that produced multiple sacks, safeties and a shutout, while Jayden Maiava showed high-efficiency passing with 349 yards and three touchdowns. The Trojans’ passing attack sparked the win with big-play receivers, though the ground game struggled, and the defense’s performance marked a clear upgrade from Week 1 to seal the shutout.

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USC's Anderson sidelined again as Fresno State's Wilson carted off with leg injury

Fresno State defensive back Ryan Wilson was carted off with a non-contact leg injury against USC, with the extent of the damage not yet known. USC meanwhile must navigate an injury-riddled lineup, missing Terrell Anderson for a second straight week and juggling several other sidelined players as it prepares to host Fresno State, including Jahkeem Stewart and Tanook Hines, among others, with further roster updates expected as Big Ten-style reporting takes hold.

Arkansas schedules earliest-ever season opener against West Florida for 2029

Arkansas football heads into a season opener against North Alabama with extensive previews, depth-chart notes, and coaching updates as analysts highlight key players and early tests. Looking ahead, the Razorbacks’ 2029 schedule features a record-setting early opener versus West Florida, plus a slate of nonconference games with Tulsa and Utah and SEC showdowns against Florida, Mississippi State, Oklahoma and Texas.

Oklahoma routs UTEP 51-0, sets up matchup with No. 16 Michigan

Oklahoma pummeled UTEP 51-0 in a dominant season opener, with John Mateer throwing three touchdown passes and Isaiah Sategna returning an 88-yard punt for a score as the Sooners rolled to a 401-186 advantage. The win also featured Parker Livingstone's clearance to play, adding another potential weapon for Mateer ahead of the big showdown with Michigan.

Miami Rules Out Three Players for Stanford Opener

Miami faces a crowded injury report ahead of its season opener against Stanford, with key players Luka Gilbert, Ja'Boree Antoine and Dylan Day all ruled out, and Jordan Lyle sidelined for the first game, forcing new depth and roles for the Hurricanes' offense and defense. The situation mirrors a broader early-season pattern as Stanford also lists numerous players out or doubtful, underscoring a testing start to the 2026 matchup.

Weigman Leads No. 23 Houston Against Oregon State

Houston's senior quarterback Conner Weigman enters the 2026 season with high expectations after leading the Big 12 with 36 total touchdowns last year, benefiting from a stable offense, improved weapons, and a healthier workload. The Cougars open against Oregon State, with Weigman’s dual-threat style posing a challenge for the Beavers who must account for his running as well as his passing, and Houston hoping to show sustained, efficient offense under coordinator Slade Nagle.

Texas vs Texas State

Mississippi State favored by 28.5 points to open Jeff Lebby's third season

Mississippi State is a clear favorite in its 2026 season opener against Louisiana-Monroe as the program seeks visible progress in Lebby's third year, while SMU starts the year ranked in the top 20 with a strong contingent of accolades and a proven quarterback in Jennings. The week also features North Mississippi high school football Week 1 results and the launch of a new Mississippi Sports Report podcast covering regional sports.

Illinois holds off UAB 42-23 behind a halftime Hail Mary

Illinois forced a 42-23 win over UAB despite being outgained, with transfer QB Katin Houser delivering 13-for-17 for 182 yards and three touchdowns and a dramatic 54-yard Hail Mary at halftime. UAB piled up 413 yards but hurt itself with nine penalties and red-zone stalls, and Illinois sealed it with a late interception returned for a touchdown after taking control in the second half.

Colorado blocks late field goal to complete comeback win over Georgia Tech

Colorado Buffaloes rallied to beat Georgia Tech 14-13 on a late 37-second drive capped by Julian Lewis’s 20-yard TD pass, followed by a blocked field-goal attempt that preserved the Buffs’ comeback. The result continues Georgia Tech’s season-opening non-conference series with Colorado, which began last year when Tech won in Boulder.

Austin Simmons throws four touchdowns as Missouri routs Arkansas-Pine Bluff 54-14

Missouri freshman transfer Austin Simmons threw for 252 yards and four touchdowns in a dominant season-opening 54-14 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff, exiting after a strong first half as the No. 25 Tigers cruised with backups. The performance featured eight catches for Donovan Olugbode and a productive first-half barrage that showcased Simmons' efficiency and the team's upgraded quarterback situation.

UCF ties scoring record as new starting quarterback leads rout of Bethune-Cookman

UCF crushed Bethune-Cookman 73-6, tying the program’s single-game points record and posting the largest margin of victory in its history as eight Knights reached the end zone. In his debut, quarterback Alonza Barnett III threw a touchdown and ran for another, while Duke Watson rushed for 110 yards as the Knights opened 1-0.

Notre Dame at Wisconsin Lambeau Opener

Notre Dame and Wisconsin square off in a highly anticipated 2026 season opener at Lambeau Field, with Wisconsin boasting a much-improved secondary and a defensive focus on pressuring Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr, while Notre Dame counters with strong offensive design and persistent coaching. The game is framed as a historic, once-in-a-lifetime matchup between storied programs, amplified by ongoing ND defensive backfield battles and Wisconsin’s need to translate improvements into results.

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Rutgers plans to host UMass in season opener

Rutgers opens the season against UMass, a Minutemen team now led by former Rutgers defensive coordinator Joe Harasymiak whose staff includes several Rutgers alumni, while Rutgers unveils a revamped defense and has named Dylan Lonergan as its starting quarterback. UMass, coming off an 0-12 season, is hoping quarterback Pop Watson leads a higher-scoring attack, but Rutgers expects to press its edge with a stronger defense and playmakers like Antwan Raymond and KJ Duff.

Illinois State routs St. Francis 76-0, sets record

Illinois State, ranked No. 4, opened the season with a 76-0 rout of St. Francis (Ill.), scoring on its first 10 drives and setting a Hancock Stadium points record. Gage Roy threw three touchdown passes and Tyler Lofton rushed for 119 yards with two scores as the Redbirds piled up 353 rushing yards and six total TDs.

UC Davis rallies past Portland State in opener

UC Davis erased a 21-point halftime deficit to defeat Portland State in the season opener, with Treynor Cleeland throwing two TD passes and Jordan Fisher scoring twice. The comeback was sealed by a 22-yard game-winning pass to Laviel Pickett with 27 seconds left.

NDSU steamrolls Jacksonville State in FBS opener

North Dakota State opened its FBS era with a 33-7 win over Jacksonville State, featuring a first-time starting quarterback Nathan Hayes and a standout defensive effort that produced key turnovers as the program looks ahead to the Mountain West move and a large, energized home crowd. Separately, U-32 High School is building a younger, veteran-guided squad after a 2025 positive showing, with just three seniors and a strong junior contingent prepping for a season opener against Fair Haven and an extended rebuild underway.

Week 0 depth charts released across programs

Across college football, teams released season depth charts ahead of Week 1, with Florida State sticking close to its projections while adjusting at tight end and QB3, Michigan State elevating Brennan Parachek to top tight end and moving Kayd Coffman to QB3, and UCF naming James Madison transfer Alonza Barnett III as the starting quarterback as it enters Scott Frost’s second season. Florida posted its final offensive depth chart ahead of its opener, and Florida A&M highlighted Jacksonville-area talent at the top of its depth chart.